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The San Antonio Independent School District prepared to open a brand new high school on the southeast part of town. This new gleaming high school was nestled atop a tall hill amongst many other hills. As district officials prepared to open the new school, they debated what to name the new facility. No one can remember which person said this, but someone supposedly mentioned that the area reminded them of the 'highlands of Scotland' in the United Kingdom and a name was therefore given to the new campus.

Highlands High School opened in the fall of 1958 with the first set of students finishing their first year on campus in the late spring of 1959. Adopting the 'Scottish' theme as a starting point, an owl was selected as the Highlands mascot. Owls were common birds in Scotland and many believed it appropriate to use this strong hunting night bird as the mascot; and the 'Mighty Fighting Owls' were born.

Rosales, Ben. "Introduction 50th Anniversary" Brigadoon May 2009

Our Mission

To transform SAISD into a national model urban school district where every child graduates so that he or she is prepared to be a contributing member of the community.

Our Vision

Our Primary purpose of improving lives through quality education is driven by an unrelenting determination to graduate all of our students and prepare them for success in higher education. Our ideology is reflected in our fundamental beliefs, commitments, and core values that guide us in our daily practices.

Our Core Values

Student Centered

High Expectations

Commitment

Passion

Integrity

Respect

Teamwork

Our Core Beliefs

Every student can learn and achieve at high levels.

We are responsible for the education and safety of every student.

We are responsible for the efficient and effective operation of the school.